2024 Accountability EdPapers: Local Context Matters

March 2024

Colorado is a state rich with geographic and cultural diversity. A one-size-fits-all model has never been consistent with our state’s traditions, and education is no exception.

The second paper in CEI’s new Accountability EdPaper series examines the critical importance of acknowledging the local context of a school district in defining and measuring school quality. 

In “Local Context Matters,” we explore the value of local measures and the role of communities in determining what success looks like in their schools. We also highlight insights from recent efforts that can help inform state learning around the possibilities of a changed high school experience for Colorado’s students that aligns with a changed accountability system for high schools.

Key topics include:

• Building community-created visions for student success.
• Learning from the Student-Centered Accountability Program and Local Accountability System Grant Program.
• Spotlighting school district efforts in Holyoke and West Grand.
• Considering the role of local measures in the future of school and district accountability frameworks.

We are excited to share this paper and invite your feedback and questions. Join us in the conversation and connect with CEI’s Vice President of Policy and Partnership Amber Elias if you would like to engage in this work.

Missed the first 2024 Accountability EdPaper? Read “Welcome Back to the Conversation” here.

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